Foolproof tips to unclog your pores

The two dreaded words that can get under your skin are ‘clogged pores’. It may not seem like a major concern for many but in reality, clogged pores can cause acne, blackheads, whiteheads, and other minor irritants to erupt on your skin.

But what exactly are clogged pores?

Well, our skin naturally has millions of tiny openings that emit oil and sweat. This helps to throw out toxins and regulate our body temperature. This is an important step in keeping the skin healthy. However, when these pores are blocked, they give rise to skin issues. These pores get blocked due to sebum, dust, pollution, grime, and dead skin.

While clogged pores are a nuisance, it is even more so if you have oily or combination skin as, more often than not, your T-Zone will end up looking like an oil-soaked warzone. While you may be tempted to squeeze those nasty blackheads off your nose, we say, hold on. That is definitely not the solution and it can cause more harm than good.

But don’t you worry. We have here some foolproof tips to help you unclog your pores, and get the fresh, flaunt-worthy complexion you deserve. Read on to find out more.

Pore strips

Made from soft woven material, these strips are coated with an adhesive that helps them stick onto wet skin. After application, it dries in about 10 to 15 minutes, after which you gently need to pull it off. This helps in removing impurities, dirt, dead cells, and build-up on the skin. However, make sure you follow package directions. If you have skin allergies or sensitive skin, do speak to your dermatologist before use.

BB recommends – Clenz U Nose Strips

Pore toner

When pores are large, more impurities enter the skin, making it prone to acne and infections. Regular use of Pore Toners tightens pores and shrinks their size, reducing the penetration of external aggregators.

BB recommends – Just Herbs Pomegranate Mandarin Pore Refining Tonique

Exfoliation to unclog pores

The act of gently scrubbing away dead skin cells, oils, and dirt on the skin is called Exfoliation. This helps to clean and unclog pores effectively. You can either use an exfoliation scrub or mask. Be gentle while using a scrub as scrubbing too hard may cause damage or irritation to the skin.

BB recommends – Organic Harvest Exfoliating Face Scrub

Clay masks for pores

Clay masks work wonders. They are gentle and remarkably effective in absorbing oil from your skin, unclogging pores, and preventing mild forms of skin problems like pimples, acne, blackheads, and whiteheads which essentially arise when your pores are clogged.

BB recommends – L’Oréal Paris Pure Clay Mask (Charcoal)

Steaming

Steaming opens your pores and helps to loosen build-up on the skin. This softens blackheads making them easier to clean. Steaming induces sweat, which increases circulation and promotes the skin’s good health. Moreover, since steaming opens pores, it helps absorbs skincare products faster and deeper into the skin.

Pore extraction

Normally done during a facial treatment, a beauty therapist or dermatologist may remove blemishes and blackheads after a session of steam. Pore Extraction is normally done manually, but at times it is done mechanically too. It is wise to leave such treatments to the skin experts as doing it on your own may lead to skin damage.

Here are few helpful pointers to keep in mind:

• Keep your face clean and wash it with a gentle face wash. Don’t overdo the cleansing as you may dehydrate your skin.
• Remove your makeup thoroughly to prevent pores from getting clogged.
• Use skincare products that are non-comedogenic which means they won’t clog pores.

• Avoid touching your face as this can transfer dirt, grime, and other impurities to your face.
• If you have oily skin, look for products that control excess shine.
• Never use baking soda on your face. It contains pH that is too alkaline for the face. This can strip your skin’s natural barrier and lead to dry, irritated skin.
• Avoid using lemon as well. It is highly acidic and can alter the skin’s natural pH level leading to dry skin and even damage.

So there you have it. Foolproof ways to unclog your pores and keep your skin looking its freshest. Never, ever skimp on your skincare routine and indulge your skin regularly. Stress less, hydrate more, surround yourself with happy vibes. Remember, good skin begins with healthy skin. And when you love the skin you’re in, it’ll love you right back!

Also Read: Makeup to conceal open pores